Viewer Question:

I recently had
an ANA test and the results were 1:640 homogenous. Symptoms of tingling
face, arms, extreme fatigue and muscle weakness. Should I contact a
rheumatologist? Also, had double stranded DNA 2 years ago, it was
negative. Could this change and does that test confirm SLE?
Signed,DW

Doctor's Response:

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), are
used by doctors as screening tests to detect the possible presence of an
autoimmune condition. They may or may not necessarily be associated with
such a condition. If your doctor is satisfied that your ANA has helped
his/her adequately to evaluate your particular health status, then no other
evaluations that may be required.

Rheumatologists are experts at
searching for conditions that can be associated with ANAs.